Civic

Civic Projects with Purpose

At IDS, we believe civic projects are more than structures—they’re investments in the future. They shape public life, reflect community values, and serve generations to come.

We partner with public sector clients to deliver thoughtful, tailored solutions that respect the complexity and significance of civic work. Every project is approached with care, precision, and a deep commitment to the public good.

Understanding Communities. Delivering Results.

Successful civic design starts with listening—understanding the needs of the people, the goals of the community, and the responsibility that comes with public investment.

From navigating regulations to aligning with long-term visions, we ensure each project meets the highest standards and delivers lasting value. At IDS, we don’t just design for today—we build for what’s next. Project Types Include:

  • Public Parking Garages

  • Commercial - Offices, Industrial & High Tech

  • Institutional - Hospitals & Clinics, Assisted Living & Skilled Nursing Facilities

  • Public Works - Offices, Libraries, Community Centers, Museums, & Correctional Facilities

  • Service - Retail, Restaurants, Snack Bars & Cafes

Yale Navigation Center

Orange County Sheriff’s Department Active Shooter

El Toro Library

Santa Ana City Hall

Palm Desert Sheriff Station Expansion

Riverside Sheriff’s Department

El Dorado Park Revitalization & New Community Center

Bill Barber Community Park

Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station Erosion Control & Maintnance

Los Alamitos-Rossmoor Library

Mariposa Park Renovations

Irvine Police Department

Brea Library

Riverside Coroner Bureau Parking Lot Improvements

Operated under contract with the County of Orange, the Yale Navigation Center provides shelter, basic needs, and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness—helping them transition toward stable housing as quickly as possible.

The project transformed a long-abandoned 44,000 SF tilt-up industrial building, adding 20,000 SF to create a 64,000 SF facility. The center includes a commercial kitchen, men’s, women’s, and family dormitories, case management and medical service offices, and an outdoor area for participants and their pets.

A Collaborative Effort

Success was made possible through continuous coordination between IDS, the contractor (engaged early in design), County officials, and the future operators of the facility. The team hosted multiple public outreach workshops, drawing from the lessons of similar shelters across Southern California.

Key to the project’s momentum was ongoing communication and full cooperation from funding agencies, the City of Santa Ana, and County building officials. The result: a highly functional, community-supported facility with strong positive feedback from user groups and neighbors alike.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

County of Orange

Yale Navigation Center Reuse & Conversion

To meet the demands of a growing population, IDS provided full architectural and engineering design services for a major tenant improvement and expansion project focused on enhancing the city’s Public Safety operations.

The multi-story Civic Center originally housed several departments, including Public Safety, Traffic Management, and Public Works. To expand the Police Department's footprint, IDS developed and executed a strategic relocation plan—shifting key departments into newly reconfigured spaces to make room for Public Safety.

Strategic Planning. Seamless Transitions.

Through detailed user group interviews, site visits, and plan studies, IDS identified opportunities to better utilize existing square footage. The result: a reimagined facility layout that maximized space, minimized disruption, and prioritized departmental efficiency.

Expertise in Complex Civic Upgrades

This project is a strong example of IDS’ capability to lead multi-departmental civic upgrades—managing complex logistics, facilitating adaptive reuse, and delivering smart solutions for critical public services.

SERVICES PROVIDED

City of Irvine

Irvine Police Department Workspace Relocation & Renovation

City of Lancaster

Mariposa Park Renovations

IDS is providing architectural and engineering services for the phased renovation of Mariposa Park, a well-used neighborhood park adjacent to an elementary school and surrounded by a long-established residential community.

The park currently features a playground, covered picnic area, softball field, eight barbecue stations with picnic tables, a ¼-mile decomposed granite trail with fitness stations, and a 1,500 SF activity building equipped with a kitchen, multipurpose room, restrooms, and maintenance storage.

Two-Phase Renovation Plan

Phase I – Playground Renovation
This phase includes demolition, minor grading, new surfacing, and full playground equipment replacement to improve safety, accessibility, and play value for all age groups.

Phase II – Onsite Improvements
The second phase focuses on a comprehensive update of park facilities, including:

  • Renovation of the existing activity building

  • ADA accessibility upgrades

  • Site and grounds enhancements

  • New and improved park lighting

Enhancing Community Spaces

The Mariposa Park renovation reflects IDS’ commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming public spaces that serve families, schools, and neighborhoods. Our approach prioritizes safety, accessibility, and long-term community use.

SERVICES PROVIDED:  

Orange County Sheriff’s Department

Active Shooter Training Facility 

IDS is proud to partner with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) on the conversion of a two-story, 7,000 SF commercial building into a modern, high-impact active shooter training facility. This project reflects our ongoing commitment to advancing public safety infrastructure through smart, purpose-driven design.

Rapid Delivery. Maximum Functionality.

This fast-track project includes full architectural and engineering services, from programming and master planning through design development and construction documentation. IDS is developing innovative interior and exterior design solutions that enhance training realism, operational flow, and long-term usability—while staying within tight budget and schedule constraints.

Supporting Those Who Serve

With this facility, OCSD will gain a versatile, state-of-the-art environment for scenario-based training—empowering officers with the tools and space they need to respond effectively in critical situations.

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station Erosion Control & Maintenance

As part of the Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station Expansion, IDS developed plans and specifications for the Basis of Design focused on erosion control. Our scope included preparing a detailed Water Quality Management Plan Report (WQMPR) to assess site conditions, identify erosion risks, and define mitigation strategies.

This work played a critical role in supporting the long-term durability of the site and ensuring environmental compliance throughout the expansion project.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

IDS provided full architectural and engineering services for the renovation of the El Toro Library, transforming it into a vibrant, modern community hub for the City of Lake Forest.

Working from a County of Orange Facilities Condition Assessment Report, IDS identified and prioritized critical building upgrades—including improvements to the building envelope, HVAC, electrical and communications systems, security, and civil site components. While no square footage was added, the project delivered major value in the form of energy efficiency, ADA compliance, and long-term equipment performance.

Designed for Flexibility and Community Use

The updated library now offers:

  • Lounge and study areas with plug-in-ready furniture

  • Public-use computers and a children’s story time room

  • Flexible, mobile furniture for easy space reconfiguration

  • Reading zones tailored to kids, teens, and adults

  • A multipurpose room for events and gatherings

High wood ceilings, calming blue tones, and a dramatic mountain wall graphic create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. A central skylight and pillar serve as a striking visual anchor—bringing natural light and a sense of openness to the space.

This renovation highlights IDS’ ability to modernize civic spaces for today’s users while ensuring functionality, comfort, and long-term value.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Orange County Public Libraries

El Toro Renovations

IDS was selected by the City of Irvine to lead the design and modernization of key sports facilities at Bill Barber Community Park, a premier 48-acre recreational space featuring lighted baseball, softball, and soccer fields.

Multi-Phase Improvement Project

Phase ICompleted
Installation of a new shade structure at Deanna Manning Stadium and across three lighted softball fields—enhancing comfort for spectators during games and events.

Phase II
Modernization of food concession stands, upgrades to restroom facilities, and installation of a new digital scoreboard at Deanna Manning Stadium.

Phase III
Upcoming bid and construction support services, with IDS continuing to guide the project through final delivery. 

SERVICES PROVIDED:

City of Irvine

Bill Barber Community Park Improvements Stadium Softball Fields, & Concession Stands

The County of Riverside Sheriff’s Department launched an ambitious program to complete 38 facility improvement projects within just six months—driven by critical funding deadlines. IDS provided full architectural and engineering services across a wide range of scopes, supporting the County’s aggressive schedule and diverse project needs. These project categories included tenant improvements, security upgrades, re-roofing projects, overhead structures, low voltage systems (cameras & keycard access), and plumbing showers & miscellaneous repairs.

Additional Projects

  • Ben Clark Training Center – Mechanical and electrical upgrade studies

  • Coroner’s Facility, Perris – Parking lot expansion and site improvements

  • Riverside Orange Street Facility – IDS led tenant improvements including, kitchen upgrades, men's and women's locker rooms remodel, lobby public restroom remodels, second-floor staff restrooms and office reconfigurations

Fast-Track Delivery. Full-Spectrum Solutions.

IDS’ ability to mobilize quickly, coordinate across departments, and deliver detailed design solutions at scale helped the County of Riverside meet its funding deadlines while improving critical infrastructure across multiple law enforcement facilities.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Department-Wide Improvement & Upgrade Projects

City of Santa Ana

City Hall Space Planning & Tenant Improvements

IDS is providing comprehensive space planning, architectural, and engineering services for multi-floor tenant improvements at Santa Ana City Hall. The project includes reconfiguration, upgrades, and expansion across several key floors to improve functionality, staff workflow, and public accessibility.

Second Floor – Full Office Reconfiguration

Engineering/Development & Administration Area (10,700 SF):

  • Training room with a dividable wall

  • Two conference rooms + lecture/training space

  • Perimeter offices and central cubicles

  • Kitchen, breakroom, E-waste room

  • Copy/supply room, restrooms, storage, and workroom

Parks, Recreation & Community Services Agency (PRCSA) Area (8,500 SF):

  • Space for 30 staff, including 6 window offices

  • Open cubicle zone and large conference room (20–30 capacity)

  • Kitchen, supply storage, and dedicated print/tech room

IDS is also assisting the City with furniture planning to support flexible, modern office layouts.

Third Floor – Conference & ADA Upgrades (2,300 SF)

  • Reconfiguration of the conference room entry

  • Updated open workspace and kitchen area

  • Full ADA-compliant restroom redesign

Fifth Floor – Staff & Reception Improvements (1,500 SF)

  • Dedicated window-lined staff workspaces

  • Renovated central corridor and reception zone near elevator

  • Enclosure of elevator lobby and code-compliant finish upgrades

  • Addition of a secondary rear egress door

This project reflects IDS’ continued commitment to improving civic spaces with smart, efficient, and user-focused design—enhancing the day-to-day experience for staff and the public alike.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Coroner Bureau West Facility Parking Lot Improvements 

IDS provided full design and construction administration services for the transformation of a previously vacant and unpaved 60,000 SF lot at the Riverside County Coroner’s Facility. The ungraded surface had long posed access challenges, especially during rain events and flooding.

Working closely with the Sheriff’s Department, IDS delivered a fully functional, durable parking solution. Scope of work included:

  • Site grading and drainage improvements

  • New pavement design and layout

  • Proper striping for vehicle organization and safety

These upgrades dramatically improved site accessibility, stormwater management, and daily operational efficiency for the facility.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Orange County Public Libraries

Los Alamitos-Rossmoor Library Tenant Improvements & Upgrades

IDS provided landscape architecture, architectural, and engineering services for the renovation and modernization of the Los Alamitos-Rossmoor Library, located within a busy community shopping center.

Partnering with the County Library Group and Orange County Public Works, IDS delivered a comprehensive design package that transformed the space into a vibrant, modern library tailored to community needs.

Smart Improvements. Meaningful Impact.

The project included:

  • Renovation of 10,489 SF of interior space

  • Expansion of community workspace by 1,188 SF

  • Upgraded lounge areas, group collaboration zones, and individual workstations

  • Building envelope improvements for energy efficiency

  • Enhanced HVAC, electrical, communications, and safety systems

  • Civil site improvements and refresh of exterior landscaping

This renovation not only modernized the facility’s infrastructure—it also created a more flexible, inviting, and inclusive environment for patrons of all ages.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station Expansion

The Palm Desert Sheriff Station, originally constructed over 30 years ago with structural steel columns, steel beams, concrete block, and metal studs, required a strategic upgrade to meet the evolving needs of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD).

IDS provided a comprehensive evaluation and design for a facility addition to support expanded operational functions, including:

  • East Dispatch

  • Central Homicide Unit (CHU)

  • Sheriff Emergency Response Team (SERT)

  • Special Investigations Bureau (SIB)

Planning for Efficiency & Growth

The remodel and infrastructure modernization plan enhances workflow efficiency, supports future capacity, and includes detailed recommendations for:

  • Equipment modernization

  • Infrastructure and systems upgrades

  • Building component improvements

This project reflects IDS’ ongoing role in delivering secure, functional, and forward-ready spaces for critical public safety operations.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

City of Lancaster

Samaritan's Purse Park (formerly El Dorado Park) Revitalization & Updated Community Center

Located in a dense urban area surrounded by neighborhoods, an elementary school, and local businesses, Samaritan’s Purse Park is being revitalized to better serve the community. IDS is providing architectural and engineering services for a comprehensive redevelopment that enhances both recreational and community-use facilities.

Project Scope Includes:

  • Removal and replacement of the existing preschool/community building with a new, modern facility

  • Addition of recreational features, including:

    • Half-court basketball court with lighting

    • Splash pad

    • Skate area

  • Replacement of the dirt path and aging exercise equipment on the north end of the park with:

    • Decomposed granite walking trail

    • Eleven new workout stations with upgraded fitness equipment

  • Integration of ADA-compliant access across walkways and all new park features

Future Enhancements:

  • Expanded, inclusive playground with equipment designed for users of all ages and abilities

  • Installation of a new swing set with eight swings, including accessible options

IDS’ design approach supports active, safe, and inclusive recreation for the entire community—creating a park that adapts to evolving needs while preserving its local character.

SERVICES PROVIDED:  

Orange County Public Libraries

Brea Library Renovations

IDS partnered with Orange County Public Libraries to reimagine the Brea Library—transforming its outdated 1980s interior into a dynamic, technology-ready community space designed to serve patrons of all ages.

Design Inspired by Poetry and Place

The new design takes inspiration from Wallace Stevens’ poem “This Solitude of Cataracts.” Just as cataracts—waterfalls in constant motion—never appear the same way twice, the library flows with movement, variety, and discovery.

  • Billowing acoustic baffles overhead evoke the form of cascading water

  • A meandering interior path guides visitors through flexible reading, study, and gathering zones

  • A natural color palette of greens and grays invites calm, curiosity, and exploration

Functional Upgrades for the Modern Patron

IDS’ architectural and engineering team delivered a full interior transformation with updated infrastructure and modern amenities, including:

  • Teens' and adults' lounges with plug-in-ready seating for personal devices

  • Private meeting rooms with whiteboards and LED displays

  • Public computer stations and smart device–friendly work areas

  • Dedicated children’s room with kid-sized furnishings, mobile stacks, and activity space

Behind-the-Scenes Improvements

The renovation also included upgrades to critical support areas:

  • Reception and circulation desk

  • Book stacks and storage

  • Staff break room and restrooms

  • Program space, administration offices, and Friends of the Library support area

Community-Funded, Community-Focused

This project is part of a larger County initiative supported by a $9.8 million grant from California’s Building Forward Library Infrastructure Program, helping revitalize local libraries across Orange County.

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

California Department of General Services

IDS has a legacy of more than five decades delivering high-quality architectural, engineering, and infrastructure design services across a wide range of project types. Our portfolio spans civic, public safety, education, parks, transportation, and community-focused developments.

For the past 20+ years, IDS has maintained a proven track record of successful contracts with the California State Department of General Services (DGS)—earning a reputation for reliability, responsiveness, and results-driven design in complex, high-stakes environments.

Our longstanding public sector partnerships underscore IDS’ ability to consistently meet the standards, schedules, and specifications of state agencies while advancing the goals of the communities they serve.

SOUTHERN REGION:

  • Forensics, Architectural and Engineering Services Retainer 

  • Architectural and Engineering Constructability / Peer Review Services

  • Architectural and Engineering Services Retainer

  • Electrical Engineering Retainer

  • Budget Package Retainer

LOS ANGELES REGION:

  • Structural Plan Review Services

  • Architectural Services Retainer

  • Architectural Services Retainer Forensic Services

Atascadero State Hospital

CA Department of Education Diagnostic Center

DMV Long Beach Field Office

DMV Santa Maria

Electrical Assessment & Design Services

Exposition Park Blue Parking Structure

Junipero Serra State Office Building

Office of Emergency Services

Patton State Hospital

Ronald Reagan State Building

Van Nuys Parking Garage

Atascadero State Hospital East-West Corridor Seismic Upgrade

Atascadero State Hospital is a maximum-security psychiatric facility serving an all-male patient population, most of whom are court-mandated or referred by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). A critical feature of the hospital’s infrastructure is the East-West Corridor, which serves as the main pedestrian and electric maintenance vehicle route connecting multiple ward buildings.

Seismic Safety & Operational Continuity

IDS served as prime consultant, providing structural, architectural, plumbing, and electrical design services to support the seismic retrofit of the corridor. Our scope included the development of Construction Documents to bring the structure into compliance with the 2013 California Building Code (CBC) for Risk Category II.

Project Scope Highlights:

  • Identification and mitigation of structural deficiencies

  • In-house design of architectural, MEP, and accessibility improvements

  • Development of phasing and move management plans to maintain hospital operations during construction

  • Coordination with specialty consultants for Hazardous Materials and Geotechnical Engineering

This project reflects IDS’ expertise in complex healthcare infrastructure upgrades—balancing seismic safety, code compliance, and minimal operational disruption within secure, high-sensitivity environments. 

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Department of Education Diagnostics Center
Roof Replacement
Water Intrusion Study 

The State Special Schools Diagnostic Center, a 60-year-old facility serving deaf and hearing impaired school-age children in Southern California, began experiencing water intrusion issues during an active re-roofing construction project. Leaks were observed in multiple areas, raising concerns about structural integrity and interior damage.

IDS Services & Deliverables

IDS was engaged to provide professional consulting services focused on identifying and resolving the source of the leaks. Our scope included:

  • Testing and destructive investigation to trace water intrusion points

  • Evaluation of existing structural damage caused by moisture exposure

  • Repair recommendations to address both immediate and long-term issues

  • A detailed cost estimate to support budgeting and corrective action planning

  • Delivery of a comprehensive investigative report to the client

This project demonstrates IDS’ expertise in building diagnostics and forensic analysis, providing actionable insight and practical solutions to help state agencies protect critical educational infrastructure.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Department of Motor Vehicles Long Beach Field Office Water Intrusion Study 

The Long Beach DMV Field Office, a one-story public service facility, began reporting severe water intrusion into the concrete slab and interior finishes. Damage to flooring and elevated moisture levels within wall systems raised concerns about long-term performance and user safety.

IDS provided comprehensive professional services to investigate and diagnose the source of water intrusion through the building envelope, including:

  • On-site inspection and envelope assessment

  • Moisture mapping and material testing

  • Identification of leak sources and system-level defects

  • Repair and replacement recommendations across affected building systems

  • Guidance to restore the facility to original design intent and performance standards

This project highlights IDS’ expertise in building forensics and envelope diagnostics, helping state agencies extend facility life, protect interior assets, and ensure operational continuity.

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

Department of Motor Vehicles Santa Maria Masonry Wall Forensic Assessment  

During the construction of the new one-story Santa Maria Field Office, concerns were raised regarding potential damage to masonry walls after a contractor used a propane torch over an approximately 46-foot span of concrete masonry units (CMU). IDS was retained to evaluate the structural integrity of the affected wall section and determine whether mitigation was necessary.

  • Reviewed construction documents and any prior reports or testing

  • Conducted site visit to extract test prisms and core samples from the CMU wall

  • Performed masonry core testing to assess structural performance

  • Developed a comprehensive forensic report, documenting:

    • Testing methodology

    • Results compared against code requirements and original construction specifications

    • Professional recommendations for either confirmation of safety or required mitigation

This investigation showcases IDS’ ability to provide rapid, expert-level forensic analysis during active construction, helping project teams make informed decisions, reduce liability, and ensure structural safety.

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

DGS Electrical Assessment & Design Services 

Under its electrical retainer with DGS, IDS provided Electrical Engineering and design services for a range of tenant improvement and infrastructure upgrade projects across multiple state agency facilities.

Employment Development Department (EDD) Infrastructure Alterations | Inglewood, CA 

IDS provided electrical design for circuiting new systems furniture within the EDD Office Building. Scope included:

  • Disconnection of existing electrical circuits

  • Reconnection and routing of power to support new modular workstations

EDD Infrastructure Alterations | Pasadena, CA  

This project involved a 14,500 SF single-story brick masonry structure. IDS provided comprehensive electrical upgrades. Scope included:

  • Installation of six assistive listening systems

  • Relocation and addition of electrical outlets, lighting, and switches

  • Lighting upgrades in the women’s restroom

  • Design for UPS backup power unit

  • Power supply for two rooftop mechanical units and four roof-mounted exhaust fans

CA Dept. of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA)  Riverside, CA  

IDS supported the 10th floor lobby remodel at CDTFA to improve security and service functionality. Scope included:

  • Removal and reconfiguration of power and data connections

  • Relocation of fire alarm devices

  • Design of power and data for new online self-service stations

  • Support for bullet-resistant (BR-3) service windows and new systems furniture

These projects demonstrate IDS’ ability to deliver specialized electrical solutions in high-security, public-facing government facilities—enhancing infrastructure, safety, and operational flow.

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

Exposition Park Blue Parking Structure  Masonry Water Intrusion Forensic Investigation   

The Blue Parking Structure at Exposition Park, which serves as guest parking for nearby venues, has shown signs of water intrusion, concrete staining, and potential structural damage—particularly at the Northeast corner where water staining was visible on retaining walls.

IDS was engaged to perform a forensic evaluation of the structure to identify root causes and provide a corrective plan. Services included:

  • On-site testing and destructive investigation to trace water intrusion sources

  • Identification of existing structural damage from prolonged moisture exposure

  • Development of targeted repair recommendations for structural and waterproofing systems

  • Preparation of a comprehensive report, including methods, findings, and cost estimates for mitigation

This project demonstrates IDS’ expertise in diagnosing and resolving complex water intrusion issues in below-grade and multi-level structures—ensuring safety, longevity, and continued usability of vital public infrastructure.

SERVICES PROVIDED:  

Junipero Serra State Office Building Water Intrusion Investigation 

The Junipero Serra State Office Building experienced long-term, year-round water intrusion, particularly in the sub-basement and 2nd sub-basement levels. Persistent moisture led to wet floors, damp walls, and widespread musty odors. Portions of the lower basement had been abandoned due to the severity of the intrusion.

IDS was engaged to perform a detailed forensic assessment and provide a repair strategy. Services included:

  • Core sampling and petrographic testing to evaluate concrete wall integrity

  • Concrete chipping to inspect reinforcing bars and structural steel framing

  • Inspection of nearby drain lines for possible ruptures contributing to water infiltration

  • Development of two waterproofing schemes:

    • Interior (negative-side) waterproofing applied to the inner wall face

    • Exterior (positive-side) waterproofing with wall drilling for porthole access

A cost-benefit analysis was conducted for both solutions, allowing the client to make an informed decision based on performance, cost, and constructability.

IDS also prepared construction documents for required concrete repairs, helping the facility plan for long-term structural resilience and interior recovery.

 

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

Junipero Serra State Office Building Assessment   

IDS was retained to upgrade and evaluate critical building systems at the Junipero Serra State Office Building, a 500,000 SF, 13-story facility in downtown Los Angeles. The project addressed aging infrastructure and enhanced system reliability, safety, and operational performance.

Security System Upgrades

  • Full removal and replacement of outdated security infrastructure

  • Design and integration of a modern Access Control / CCTV system

  • System built to interface with existing building technologies and comply with all current codes and regulations

Fire Life Safety (FLS) Switch Upgrades

  • Replacement of the original Fire Alarm System and Emergency Transfer Switch, last modernized in 1999

  • New components selected to align with current code requirements and system performance standards

Chiller and Cooling Tower Replacement

  • Replacement of three Baltimore Air Coil cooling towers and three chillers (1 x 250-Ton, 2 x 650-Ton)

  • Upgrades to all associated cooling tower support components to ensure efficient HVAC operation

Service Life Evaluation – Phases 1 & 2

  • Structural condition assessment of the existing building

  • Seismic evaluation per ASCE 41-17 Tier 1 and Tier 2-3 standards

  • Development of retrofit schemes and cost estimates to guide long-term planning and resilience

This comprehensive project showcases IDS’ ability to deliver large-scale, multi-disciplinary upgrades to major public facilities, enhancing building performance, extending service life, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Office of Emergency Services CalOES Budget Package  

At the request of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), IDS prepared a full budget package for the design and construction of a new Southern Region Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This state-critical facility will mirror the functionality of the State Operations Center (SOC) in Mather, supporting year-round emergency preparedness and disaster response coordination in Southern California.

Mission-Critical Facility Design

The secured, 24/7/365 operational campus will include:

Main Facility

  • Administrative and operations offices

  • Emergency Operations Center

  • Shared training and coordination rooms

Support Building

  • Disaster supply warehouse

  • Vehicle maintenance bay

  • Staging and storage space for command trailers and emergency equipment

Key Site Components

  • Microwave transmission tower

  • Emergency backup generators and fuel storage

  • Stormwater retention ponds and bioswales

  • Secure perimeter fencing with gated vehicular access

  • Guard shack and visitor control

  • Staff and visitor parking

  • Drought-tolerant native landscaping

  • Outdoor staff amenities and shaded break areas

  • Monument and wayfinding signage

Sustainability & Resilience Goals

  • Net Zero Energy performance

  • LEED Gold Certification targeted

  • Facility designed to meet the Essential Services Act (ESA) standards

This EOC will serve as a hub for emergency coordination, training, and disaster preparedness, accommodating multiple agencies while reinforcing California’s commitment to public safety and sustainable design.

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

Patton State Hospital Culvert & Kitchen Forensic Investigation and Repair    

In 2019, a one-story kitchen and office building was constructed at Patton State Hospital to support campus operations. Shortly after completion, two major issues were reported:

  1. Culvert Failure: The concrete-lined culvert designed to drain excess water began to show significant heaving, cracking, and erosion, compromising its function and stability.

  2. Flooring Failure: Facility staff observed bubbling and cracking in the epoxy resin flooring, which persisted despite multiple localized repair efforts.

IDS provided comprehensive forensic architecture and engineering services to identify the root causes of these failures and recommended corrective solutions. Our work included:

  • Site inspection, testing, and material analysis of the culvert and flooring systems

  • Evaluation of structural and material performance issues related to construction methods and environmental exposure

  • Documentation of findings and failure patterns

  • Detailed recommendations for mitigation, repair, and long-term system performance

  • Final reporting to DGS with actionable repair strategies

This project showcases IDS’ ability to provide expert forensic assessment of newly constructed facilities, supporting public agencies in resolving post-construction failures and preventing future operational disruptions.

SERVICES PROVIDED:  

Ronald Reagan State Building Fire Sprinkler Piping & Domestic Water Investigation & Modernization   

IDS conducted a comprehensive forensic investigation of the domestic water systems, fire protection systems (including 45 sprinkler zones), and the generator fuel tank at the Ronald Reagan Building (RRB). The study focused on identifying corrosion-related damage, performance failures, and long-term risks to critical infrastructure.

Findings & Recommendations

The investigation revealed widespread deterioration of piping systems and recommended:

  • Full replacement of the fire pump and associated systems

  • Replacement of failing water lines in both domestic and fire protection systems

  • Evaluation and potential replacement of infrastructure connected to the generator fuel tank

Following the study, IDS developed detailed construction documents to execute the recommended upgrades, including:

Domestic Water System Upgrades

  • Replacement of domestic hot water piping

  • Installation of a new domestic hot water heat exchanger, circulating pumps, and central pressure-reducing valve (PRV) in the water heater room at Parking Level 1

Fire Protection System Upgrades

  • Replacement of all high-pressure horizontal feed main piping

  • Long-term phased plan for sprinkler system replacement

  • Full replacement of standpipes and large-diameter fire protection piping

  • Use of ultrasonic (UT) pipe scanning to determine structural viability of remaining piping infrastructure

This project demonstrates IDS’ capability to diagnose, design, and deliver complex infrastructure solutions in high-occupancy government facilities—ensuring safety, compliance, and long-term system resilience.

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Van Nuys Parking Garage  Water Intrusion Forensic Assessment  

The Van Nuys Parking Garage experienced significant water ponding and intrusion, particularly on the top parking level and along the north-facing subgrade concrete walls and floors. Water staining on the underside of the top-level slab further indicated ongoing seepage and deterioration.

IDS was retained to conduct a detailed forensic investigation and recommend solutions to address existing damage and prevent future intrusion. Our services included:

  • Camera inspection of interior air ducts to identify hidden moisture pathways

  • Excavation of test pits to assess the condition of existing waterproofing membranes

  • Controlled flooding of test pits to observe real-time water flow and identify leak sources

  • Documentation of damage locations and contributing factors

  • Targeted repair recommendations and waterproofing strategies to restore integrity and performance

This project highlights IDS’ expertise in diagnosing complex water intrusion in multi-level structures and delivering actionable, cost-effective repair strategies that preserve the life and functionality of essential public infrastructure.

SERVICES PROVIDED: